The Black Stars recorded a crucial 1-0 win over the Eagles of Mali in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8, 2025.
Captain Jordan Ayew’s corner kick found Alexander Djiku, who tapped the ball into the net at the far post after a scuffle in the box.
Mali revived their performance with incessant attacks, but the defense kept their composure to thwart the danger, with Djiku, Salisu, and Yirenkyi playing key roles.
Kamaldeen Sulemana and Joseph Paintsil, who came on as substitutes, added extra pressure in attack, but a lack of clinical finishing denied the team a second goal.
‘All for the nation’ – Black Stars defender Alexander Djiku reacts to crucial win against Mali
The win puts the Black Stars in pole position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
After eight matches, Ghana lead Group I with 19 points, Madagascar are second with 16 points, Comoros are third with 15 points, while Mali lie fourth with 12 points.
Ghana will need to win one of their two remaining games in October 2025, against the Central African Republic (CAR) and Comoros, to seal qualification for the global showpiece.
Watch highlights of the game below:
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